The Simpsons Game

Bart Simpson goes to a video game store and purchases the new ultra-violent Grand Theft Scratchy game, which his mother, Marge, promptly confiscates. Suddenly, a video game instruction manual appears in front of him. After reading the manual, the Simpson family members discover that each possesses a unique superpower. However, playing with these attracts the attention of the aliens Kang and Kodos, who decide to invade Earth. The unlikely superheroes must defend Springfield from an alien invasion and discover the valid reason for their newly acquired powers and possibly their existence. Based on the long-running cartoon, The Simpsons Game is a 3D action game with platforming and light puzzle-solving elements. The game is divided into sixteen episodes, each with cutscenes similar to the original Simpsons TV show. Every episode occurs in a different setting; some scenarios occur in Springfield, while others transport the player to meta-virtual worlds. Some episodes, with names like Medal of Homer or Neverquest, parody a popular game or genre. Each stage features two Simpson clan members collaborating to achieve the goal. Players must switch back and forth between family members, each with their abilities to complete the level. The majority of the game’s versions support two-player cooperative play. The four controllable characters have unique abilities that can be used for combat, puzzle-solving, or exploration. Homer can transform into a rolling blob or inflate himself with helium and float for a short period; later, he learns a few other transformation abilities. Bart can transform into Bartman, using a grappling hook to gain access to certain areas and moving upwards in air streams with his cape. Lisa’s primary ability is the “Hand of Buddha,” which she uses to move around large objects; she can also use her saxophone to stun or confuse enemies. Finally, Marge can gather people and control their actions with her megaphone and send Maggie into crawlspaces only she can access. Some of these abilities have limited uses and must be recharged or replenished with unique items, whereas others are only available at specific trigger points.